Wish comes true for retired train driver

A Frome care home resident was delighted to have their dream come true after wishing to ride on a steam train.

84-year-old Garth Loxton, a resident at Care UK’s Rossetti House, on Welshmill Lane, was surprised by the team with a trip through the beautiful Somerset countryside in a steam train – after learning that he used to be a steam train driver.

The care home has a ‘Wishing Tree’ initiative, which allows residents to suggest ideas for new hobbies they’d like to try, places they’d like to visit or even activities linked to a past career. This encourages residents to live fulfilling lives – from skiing to a fish and chip supper, no wish is too big or small.

In his younger years, Garth always had a love for trains and started off in his career as a fireman on a steam train, eventually progressing to a driver of a steam and diesel quarry train – a role which he did for many years. Even after retiring, his love for trains never faded.

Keen to help Garth step back in time, the team at Rossetti House arranged a special trip to East Somerset Railway. Garth was joined by fellow resident Roy, and Eva and Mel from the activities team. On the day they enjoyed a ride on a steam train before watching an engine change for the return journey back.

 Garth Loxton said: “I loved the smell of the steam and seeing the beautiful countryside, it brought back so many happy memories from my days on a steam train.

Phil Vale, General Manager at Rossetti House, said: “Garth had a fantastic day travelling on the East Somerset Railway.

“Here at Rossetti House, we are always looking for new and innovative ways to support residents in leading meaningful and fulfilling lives. When the team learned how much Garth loved trains, we knew we had to do something to help him celebrate his passion and bring back happy memories of his career too.

“It was a fantastic day, and seeing Garth so happy has really warmed our hearts. We can’t wait to arrange our next trip!

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Rossetti House incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The building has been designed to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.